The world of anime is filled with iconic franchises that have captivated audiences for decades. One such franchise is Macross, which has a rich history spanning almost 40 years. Among its many entries, Macross Plus stands out as a landmark anime film that combines breathtaking animation, compelling storytelling, and an unforgettable soundtrack. In this Macross Plus review, we will delve into the details of this cinematic masterpiece, exploring its animation, characters, story, and overall impact.
The Visual Spectacle: Breathtaking Animation
When it comes to animation, Macross Plus sets a new standard. The film’s animation is nothing short of jaw-dropping, with every frame meticulously crafted to showcase the intricate details of the mechanical artwork. From planes and robots to computers and vehicles, every element is rendered with stunning precision and realism. The level of detail is particularly impressive when compared to modern computer-generated mechs, as Macross Plus relies on traditional animation techniques to bring its world to life.
One of the film’s standout features is its action sequences. They are some of the most elaborate and dynamic ever seen in anime, making the central Valkyrie fighters feel truly powerful and cutting-edge. The combination of fluid animation, intense choreography, and breathtaking visuals creates a sense of excitement and immersion rarely seen in other anime films. Whether it’s a high-speed dogfight or a dramatic transformation sequence, Macross Plus delivers on all fronts.
A Trimmed Narrative: The Movie Edition
Macross Plus was originally released as a four-part OVA series. However, the version screened in theaters, known as the “Movie Edition,” is an edited combination of the original episodes. This editing was necessary to condense the story into a reasonable feature-length format. While the edits don’t detract from the overall comprehension of the story and major character arcs, some early skirmishes between Isamu and Guld in their fighter planes are trimmed down. While understandable, as these scenes don’t contribute significantly to the plot, it does result in a slightly disjointed first act. However, for first-time viewers, this won’t hinder their understanding of the film’s core narrative.
A Standalone Entry: Easy to Dive Into
For those new to the Macross franchise, Macross Plus serves as an excellent entry point. While all the entries in the series are set in the same world, each one is designed to be understandable on its own. While there are references and callbacks to the original Super Dimension Fortress Macross, Macross Plus can be enjoyed without prior knowledge of the franchise. The core elements of Macross—transforming robots, diegetic musical performances, and a central love triangle—are all present in Macross Plus. However, it’s important to note that Macross Plus has a darker and more cynical tone than other entries, making it a unique experience within the franchise.
Collaborative Brilliance: Watanabe and Nobumoto
One of the reasons Macross Plus stands out is due to the involvement of two legendary collaborators: Shinichiro Watanabe and Keiko Nobumoto. Both Watanabe and Nobumoto leave their mark on the film, infusing it with their distinctive styles and storytelling prowess. While Macross Plus still captures the essence of Macross, it takes on a significantly darker and more introspective tone. This departure from the franchise’s usual tone adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling watch for both longtime fans and newcomers.
A Masterclass in Mood: Writing, Visuals, and Sound
Macross Plus excels in crafting mood and atmosphere, thanks to the masterful work of Watanabe and Nobumoto. The film seamlessly combines writing, visuals, and sound to create scenes and setpieces that evoke a range of emotions. From thrilling action sequences to hauntingly beautiful moments, every aspect of the film’s presentation contributes to its larger-than-life storytelling. The characters, despite being caught in a futuristic sci-fi conflict, are grounded and relatable, allowing the audience to connect with their humanity. Macross Plus exemplifies the power of multimedia storytelling and demonstrates how a synergy of elements can elevate a film to new heights.
The Complex Fallout: Friendship and Conflict
At the heart of Macross Plus lies a story of friendship and its bitter fallout. The central trio—Isamu, Guld, and Myung—were once close friends, but their relationship has since deteriorated. Guld harbors deep anger, constantly antagonizing Isamu and compromising his own abilities as a pilot. Isamu, on the other hand, seeks thrills by risking his life, desperately trying to recapture the spark he once felt while flying alongside his friends. Myung, torn by the hurt she carries, has given up on her dreams but longs to release her pent-up emotions. Whenever these characters come together, their encounters are explosive and emotionally charged, creating moments of intense personal drama. The film expertly intertwines their individual conflicts with the larger sci-fi narrative, heightening the emotional stakes and delivering a captivating story.
Considerations: Photosensitivity and Sensitive Themes
While Macross Plus is a remarkable film, there are a few considerations worth mentioning. Firstly, the introductory concert sequence featuring Sharon Apple contains fast and jarring flashes that could potentially trigger photosensitive viewers. It’s crucial for individuals with photosensitivity to exercise discretion when watching this particular sequence. Secondly, the film addresses sensitive themes, including an attempted sexual assault. While the film handles this topic with care and avoids gratuitousness, the presentation and resolution of the conflict may leave some viewers questioning its treatment. Despite these considerations, they do not overshadow the overall quality of the film.
The Missing Pieces: Abrupt Conclusion
As Macross Plus nears its conclusion, one can’t help but notice that certain aspects of the narrative are left unresolved. While the characters are effectively developed, and their conflicts are compelling, the film’s finale lacks the necessary room for a thoughtful and comprehensive conclusion. The absence of a proper denouement, outside of the final credits, gives the ending an uncomfortably abrupt feel. Although this doesn’t detract significantly from the film’s overall impact, a few additional minutes could have provided a more satisfying resolution to the story’s various threads.
A Timeless Classic
Despite its minor flaws, Macross Plus deserves its reputation as a timeless classic. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or a newcomer, this film is a must-watch. Its stunning animation, compelling characters, and expertly crafted storytelling make it an unforgettable cinematic experience. Shinichiro Watanabe and Keiko Nobumoto’s contributions elevate the film to new heights, infusing it with their unique styles and artistic vision. Macross Plus stands as a testament to the power of anime as a storytelling medium and continues to captivate audiences to this day.
